If you have ever had foot pain, then you know that it is more than just an inconvenience. It can be a major disruption to your daily life, interrupting your work life, social life, and personal life. You are lucky if it is just the nagging discomfort at the end of a long, exhausting day. But what if it is the shooting pain that makes every step a painful challenge that keeps you from doing the things you love and the things you need to do?  If you struggle with foot pain, consider seeing a foot surgeon in Los Angeles. They will share tips related to foot pain prevention, but they can also identify what is causing it and provide the necessary treatment.

 

Foot Pain Prevention Tips

 

Ensuring that your feet are healthy, strong, and pain-free allows them to support you in your endeavors. With some preventive measures, you can protect them from the common sources of pain. 

 

Choose the Right Footwear

 

Ill-fitting, unsupportive shoes are uncomfortable and can cause various issues like bunions, blisters, plantar fasciitis, and other problems. When buying shoes, remind yourself of the following:

 

• Choose shoes that fit well but still have room for your toes to move freely. 
• Avoid shoes that squeeze your feet or leave too much space.
• Adequate arch support prevents strain on your feet and helps keep your feet away from conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
• Choose shoes with good cushioning, especially if you plan on wearing them for long periods at a time. Cushions help reduce stress on your feet and absorb shock.
• Avoid wearing high heels, especially for extended periods. They are uncomfortable and can contribute to the development of foot problems. 

 

Practice Good Foot Hygiene

 

Prevent infection by practicing good foot hygiene. Follow the tips below.

 

• Clean your feet thoroughly with soap and water every day, paying particular attention to your toes.
• Moisture can cause fungal infections, so it is essential to dry your feet thoroughly after washing them.
• Apply moisturizing lotion on your feet. Moisturizers can keep your skin from drying and cracking.
• Trim your toenails straight across to help prevent ingrown nails, which can cause pain and infections.

 

Incorporate Foot Exercises in Your Daily Routine

 

Regular exercise can help your feet muscles become stronger, enhance their flexibility, and promote circulation.

 

• Sit in a chair and pull your toes gently back towards your ankles. Hold and release. You can do this several times.
• Lift one foot and rotate your ankle in a circular motion. Do the same with the other foot.

 

Maintain a Healthy Weight

 

Your excess weight puts additional pressure on your feet, increasing the risk of foot pain and related conditions. A balanced diet and regular exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight and lessen the strain and pressure on your feet. Eat fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Stay away from sugary foods and drinks. Stay active. Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and walking can help you keep a healthy weight without putting much stress on your feet.

 

Relax Your Feet

 

Remember to allow your feet to rest, especially if your work requires you to spend a lot of time on your feet. Prolonged standing and walking can lead to foot fatigue and pain. Here are some tips you can follow to give your feet the rest they deserve.

 

• Elevate your feet while sitting or lying down to help reduce swelling and promote circulation.
• A footrest can help keep your feet comfortable when you are sitting for long periods.
• Take short breaks and stretch your feet and legs periodically. 
• Massage your painful foot or roll it on a tennis ball.

 

Seek Professional Advice

 

There are times when foot pain is a symptom of a more serious problem. Seeking medical advice is a wise move to ensure that you get a timely diagnosis and proper foot pain treatment. The following symptoms may indicate you should call or see a medical professional.

 

• Persistent severe foot pain for two weeks or more
• Sudden foot pain
• Foot pain after an injury
• Swelling, redness, and fever 
• You are a diabetic experiencing foot pain.

 

Address the Cause of Your Foot Pain

 

Your feet provide your body with much-needed support. Neglecting them may cause a significant disruption in your daily life. Take good care of your feet by giving them the rest and care they need. It is normal for your feet to hurt after a long day. However, if you cannot identify the reason for the pain, it is better to see a licensed medical practitioner rather than take pain relievers that only mask the pain and do nothing to address its root cause. They can give you an accurate diagnosis and provide your feet with the proper and effective treatment. If you are suffering from foot pain, contact a medical professional today.